FAQs:

How is mentoring different from networking?

Networking is about developing professional contacts for informational interviews and job leads. Mentoring is about an experienced professional and a student or young alumna developing a close-knit, long-term relationship covering all aspects of personal and career development.

How long is the program?

Applications are made available in October once all Tau Theta Pi Chapters have started the school-year. Matches are announced in November with first meetings occurring in December. The minimum bi-monthly communication between mentors and mentees runs from January till the program year ends in June. Mentors and mentees are, of course, welcome and encouraged to continue their relationship beyond the program if they so choose.

How are mentors and mentees matched?

At the end of the application period, all applications are reviewed by NB Alumnae Relations. Matches are made according to how closely a mentor and a mentee meet each other’s criteria. Mentors and mentees are free to either accept or decline their assignment at the time they receive their match.

What kind of activities can I expect as part of Tau AMP?

Activities are determined by the mentor and mentee. Examples of activities include anything reviewing a resume to providing insights on how to maintain a good work-life balance. The actual nature of the mentoring pair will be up to each individual to determine and develop. For ideas on activities, please refer to the Tau AMP Resources section.

What should I do once I have been paired with a mentor/mentee?

The mentee is tasked with making the first contact after a match has been made. If possible, the pair will have an in-person conversation to start so that they can get to know each other including things such as general interests, likes and dislikes. The first meeting is also when the Mentoring Agreement will be completed (sent to pairs when they receive their assignment and also found in the Resources section).

How much time will Tau AMP take?

The minimum expectation is that a mentor and mentee pair will communicate at least twice a month. The time commitment could range from a few hours per month to several hours per week depending on the preferences of the mentor and mentee. It is ultimately up to the pairs to decide what works best for them.

How long does the mentoring relationship last?

Officially, the first meeting happens in December with communication on-going through June when the program year ends. However, this does not mean that the mentoring relationship has to end. The goal of Tau AMP is to develop long-term relationships between mentors and mentees. It is highly encouraged for mentors and mentees to continue their relationship on an informal basis, should they choose.

Can I have more than one mentor/mentee?

Mentees may only have one mentor, however mentors may choose to have up to 3 mentees. Since the program is designed for a mentee to learn from their mentor, it is best that they have only one. While mentors may have up to 3 mentees, the expectations and commitment remain the same and should be considered carefully before taking on more than 1 mentee. If mentors and mentees apply and are accepted to Tau AMP in future years, they will receive a new mentor/mentee.

What if there is a problem with my match/mentoring relationship?

If there are any problems or questions, please contact NB Alumnae Relations at alumnaerelations@tauthetapi.org so we can help you.